Approaching my escape from Alaska to California in my 18th year I was passionate, terrified and eager. I wanted to leave someone behind I didn’t know anymore. I never felt I had to change what was inside, what was still evolving and bursting forth – only what was outside. I knew deep down despite the comfort and familiarity of “home” I couldn’t be my most raw, real self if I didn’t push, if I didn’t run, if I didn’t rebel against complacency.

I knew loss, I didn’t know change.

I’m frightened of a good many things, most of which are on my list of “to do’s” because with out the terror and the rising above it and the championing what lies only in my head…I am without. Minus conquering the trepidation I am inadequate and incomplete and useless to anyone else, never mind how useless I am to myself.

“The easy thing and the right thing are rarely the same”
-Rep. Jeremy Fischer

I built a mini-life in California before my adventure eastward, prior to tearing it all apart and trying again at 21. Before doing it over – better.

The years between home and halfway home have been full of daring adventures, devastating heartache and overwhelming hope.

This is the dream I have for you. That you will find what challenges you, fills your heart, threatens to break you and ultimately assists your evolution to the unleashing a new, improved you.